If you’re thinking about a trip to Vietnam, or you’ve booked your flights and you’re already there (mentally) then you’re in for a real treat. Not only are you about to experience some of the most beautiful scenery that the world has to offer (hello, Ha Long Bay) but you’re also going to meet some lovely people, eat some delicious food, and bask in the warm sunlight in this stunning country. Honestly, if you’re going to be saying ‘good morning Vietnam’ sooner than any of us are, we’re not jealous at all. At. All.
We’ve made a super simple list, so that you can make the most of your time in Vietnam.
Stay in hostels (sometimes)
The hotels in Vietnam can be pretty affordable, but don’t make the mistake of staying in them all of the time. Not only are the hostels really cheap, but they give you an opportunity to meet other people who are travelling around the country. You won’t only be meeting people who speak English, and you’ll be able to make friendships with people from all over the world. This is great if you’re a travel lover, as you’ll have friends on every corner of the globe who can show you around. If you stay in hostels, you can also find out all of the interesting stuff that is happening wherever you are, which is great if you’ve only just arrived.
Hire (or buy) a motorcycle
Whether you hire one (which is good if you’re only staying for a short period of time) or just go all out and buy one (which won’t be too expensive anyway) you need to get a motorcycle if you’re going to see Vietnam in all of its glory. There are some beautiful, winding roads on the coast and up the mountains, and you can only really experience this on a motorcycle. You should make sure that you plan out some kind of route, as you don’t want to find yourself lost in the mountains, especially if you’re alone and you don’t know any Vietnamese. Apart from that, you’re all good to go!
Street food, street food, and more street food
Many foreigners are cautious about eating street food in the countries that they visit, and there are some places where it can make you quite ill. However, Vietnamese cuisine is not likely to cause you any trouble (don’t quote us on that) and if you’re really worried, stick to a vegetarian diet. This is doable in most of the countries across Asia, especially if they’re predominantly Buddhist, but whatever you choose, you need to try some of the street food delicacies in Vietnam. Not only are they really cheap, but they taste delicious, and you’ll be waiting for dinnertime to come around every day…
So, if you’re looking to take a trip to Vietnam, you’re going to have the vacation of a lifetime. If you want to get it right, however, you should stay in hostels where you can, hire a motorcycle so that you can experience different sides of the country, and eat the wonderful street food on offer here. You’ll never want to leave!
Collaborative Post
Suzanne Stavert
Vietnam is definitely on my bucket list!
Tam Warner
Mine too. Perhaps we should start looking!